Business column: Ask yourself a few honest questions to promote positive change

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Many people use New Year's resolutions to institute change in their lives, but the fact is that most are broken by month's end. It's probably not a mind-boggling revelation that 45 percent of the population makes resolutions but only 8 percent keep them. The end of January is quickly approaching. If you are waning in your efforts to stay on track, ask yourself these questions. Although career is the focus, the quality of your life, far beyond the world of work, benefits when progress is made in these areas.

Are you going in the right direction?

Many set out on a career path without knowing how they got there. " I stumbled upon this unexpected opportunity," one might say or "I will do this work until I find a real job." Unforeseen opportunities often turn into blessings if the fit is just right, but that's not always the case. If you're going in a direction that doesn't feel right, it might not be in your best interest to continue. Do you enjoy what you do? Do you feel good at the end of the day? Are you energized and creative? The best job for you is the one you love. You will shine brighter and be your best.

Is your life balanced?

Three components - mind, body and spirit - affect well-being. Are you tending to each of these? One might do crossword puzzles for a mind exercise, take a brisk, daily 15-minute walk to tend to physical needs and write poetry or spend time in solitude to feel spiritually connected. These are just examples. Ways of satisfying these key areas are vast and unique to each individual. If one area is neglected or eliminated while another dominates, the balance is tipped, precluding excellence. Consider this quote: "The key to keeping balance is knowing when you've lost it." -Anonymous

Do you have support system?

If you have a support system you are lucky indeed. But not everyone is as fortunate. Seek out opportunities to meet people with similar interests. Join groups where you can meet those who are experiencing lifestyle events that parallel your own. Support is essential. Don't underestimate the role it plays in your life.

Are you taking care of your health?

In order to be successful and thrive, one must be active and maintain good health. Prioritize your physical and mental health beginning today. You can start with small steps and gain momentum as the year unfolds but don't put it off any longer. If you're experiencing health challenges, get a medical exam. Your health is priceless. Take care of it.

Do relationships need mending?

Relationship issues create stress, distract from goals and dampen the joy of achievement. Vital relationships must be in order so we can focus with clarity on the task at hand. Who are the important people in your life? Do you spend enough quality time with them? Is there a fence that needs mending? How can you improve the role you play? Seek out answers and find solutions to resolve differences.

Are finances bogging you down?

According to a 2012 survey conducted by Bankrate.com, 1 out of ever 4 Americans have more debt than savings. Poor finances can compromise your health, ruin relationships and exacerbate anxiety. Devise a rescue plan. See a credit counselor, negotiate with your creditors; stick to a budget. Most of all stay on course with measurable and attainable goals to secure and resolve financial challenges.

Will you reach your highest potential?

Have you made the most of your natural talents? If not, now is the time to start. Become a lifelong learner, expand your knowledge base daily, embrace change and dispose of negativity. Dwell on the positive aspects of your life. Be thankful and glean inspiration from the world around you. Visualization is a powerful tool; use it to look into your future. Find a role model to emulate. In short, make each moment of your life count to the best of your ability.

Not all habits are created equal; change takes time. Be patient with your progress and know that setbacks are a natural part of the process. The end result is worthy of your time, tenacity and will.

Happy 2013!

- Gloria Sinibaldi is a career professional who has worked in the employment field for more than 20 years. She is a trainer coach and job developer. Email questions to glorialinda16@gmail.com.